Source: Al Bayan
Aliya Al Shamlan, the founder and general manager of “Firjan Dubai,” announced the extension of the “Bain Al Ghaf” festival until March 29th, following the success of the second edition of the festival, which saw the attendance of over 135,000 visitors.
The festival includes a diverse range of activities aimed at enhancing the quality of life within Firjan Dubai, such as Ramadan competitions, volleyball leagues, and showcasing innovative home projects.
Aliya Al Shamlan said: “Through extending the festival in cooperation with Dubai Municipality and Firjan Fund, we aim to promote Islamic values during the holy month of Ramadan and increase community cohesion and solidarity.” She noted that the festival highlights national identity and cultural heritage, supports homegrown and innovative projects, and showcases diverse talents to enhance the quality of life in Dubai.
Values of Communication
She added: “Given the great success and wide turnout witnessed by the festival in its second edition last February, and in harmony with the holy month of Ramadan, the decision to extend the festival’s activities came to enhance the values of communication and solidarity among community members through one platform.” She affirmed that the festival reflects their vision of strengthening social bonds, highlighting national identity and cultural heritage through events that combine authenticity and modernity, while providing a greater opportunity to enjoy a rich and diverse program package.
Al Shamlan mentioned that four murals have been allocated for talented artists and calligraphers to create live paintings in front of all festival visitors, in addition to showcasing the artistic works of neighbors in the fields of photography and painting. She also highlighted the provision of an entertainment area for children, including a horse riding section, a jumping castle area, Emirati traditional games, and various workshops.
Competitions
The festival offers interactive competitions for children and adults, popular competitions, musical performances on oud, qanun, and piano, and a poetry competition with the Dubai Youth Council.
More visitors are expected to be attracted, and awareness about the importance of social communication and family cohesion, especially during the holy month, is expected to be enhanced. The 11-day event includes a variety of activities and events, combining Ramadan competitions, organizing a volleyball league, showcasing 15 home projects, in addition to the contribution of diverse talents and the participation of 27 restaurants and cafes. The Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department participates in the collective iftar organized by Firjan by providing an imam, as well as securing containers for clothing donations painted by students from Zayed University.